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Simpkins v. State

Maryland Court of Special Appeals

596 A.2d 655 (1991)

Facts

Alan Simpkins and Grace Geisler (defendants) were the parents of two-year-old Brandy Simpkins. Brandy died of malnutrition and dehydration after Simpkins and Geisler failed to give her food or drink for five days. Simpkins and Geisler were charged with murder in the first degree. A jury of the Circuit Court for Baltimore City convicted Simpkins and Geisler of second-degree murder. Simpkins and Geisler appealed, claiming that the evidence did not establish that they acted with malice toward Brandy.

Rule of Law

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Issue

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Holding and Reasoning (Wilner, C.J.)

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A "yes" or "no" answer to the question framed in the issue section;
A summary of the majority or plurality opinion, using the CREAC method; and
The procedural disposition (e.g., reversed and remanded, affirmed, etc.).

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